Select Local Merchants

Chicago Double Racing Festival pits runners against each other in a test of endurance, both physical and mental. The day begins with a 5- or 10K run, with first place finishers earning a bright yellow jersey. Then, runners take a break for an hour, recouping and preparing for the next leg of their journey. Heats meet back at the starting line to compete once again, this time in a 3- or 5K dash. Every participant earns a medal and t-shirt, with top finishers taking home special accolades and cash prizes.

BADASS Dash’s organizers live in a world of imagination. Where others see cargo nets, they see giant webs to be scaled. School buses become climbing walls and bales of hay turn into tunnels filled with grass and mud. In city after city, they place 30+ of these obstacles along a 7-kilometer course, and invite individuals and teams to compete against each other in elite matches, or beat their personal best in recreational races. Afterward, the organizers throw a celebratory bash filled with bonfires, food, and prizes for top finishers. A portion of the proceeds goes to benefit the charity Autism Speaks.

Downers Grove's Lyman Woods Interpretive Center is the great place for a sports fan to spend a Saturday, or any day for that matter.
Feeling hungry? Sit down for a bite to eat at this club 's restaurant.
You won't need to get a sitter before heading to this club — kids are more than welcome at this family-friendly establishment.
Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles.

Tired of being indoors? Head to Spring Valley Nature Sanctuary in Schaumburg and enjoy a fun-filled day at the park.
Whether you want mouth-watering food or great drinks, this park has the restaurant just for you.
With its kid-friendly vibe, this park is a great spot for families.
Parking is plentiful, so guests can feel free to bring their vehicles.

Sports fans know to plan their weekend around Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center in Oak Brook.
Head on over to the in-house restaurant for a delectable meal.
Having trouble finding that family-friendly activity everyone will love? This club is made for all ages, so little ones are welcome to come along, too.
Parking is plentiful, so guests can feel free to bring their vehicles.

With plants originating from 40 countries in the northern hemisphere, a trip through the 1,700 acres of The Morton Arboretum is like a trip across America, China, and Europe. More than 222,000 plants are protected and showcased on the grounds—an internationally renowned outdoor tree museum located 25 miles west of Chicago in Lisle, Illinois. Throughout the year, scores of nature-focused events, activities, and educational offerings for adults, children, and professionals keep nature enthusiasts engaged and educated. In addition to 16 miles of walking trails and nine miles of roads, guests can also rent bicycles, skis, and snowshoes or grab a bite to eat at the Ginkgo Restaurant and Café. Additionally, guests can also bring children to the award-winning four-acre Children’s Garden, get lost in the one-acre hedge maze, or hike 16 miles of trails through woods and around lakes.